Man punished for fly-tipping in Scarisbrick

A FLY-TIPPER will be getting his own hands dirty after being given community hours for dumping rubbish in West Lancs.

In an unusual verdict, Ormskirk Magistrates decided to make an example of Gary Marshall on by ordering him to give 40 hours of unpaid work through a community service order for his irresponsible behaviour.

It is the first time West Lancashire District Council has known the courts to give this sort of punishment for a fly-tipping offence, and the authority hopes the sentence will now deter other would-be dumpers.

During the court hearing, Mr Marshall admitted dumping three bags of rubbish in Renacres Lane, Scarisbrick on the February 23. He told magistrates that in order to make room for a quad bike, he emptied the contents of his father’s trailer in Renacres Lane. Mr Marshall chose a spot where the bin bags could be seen to make it easier for the bin wagon to take it away for him.

However, following a complaint, one of the council’s street scene officers visited the scene and found numerous examples of correspondence addressed to Mr Marshall’s property.

After deliberating the matter, magistrates decided that the most appropriate punishment would be a community service order. He was also required to pay £150 towards the council’s costs.

Cllr John Baldock, portfolio holder for environment and health, said: “This is an excellent result for us and demonstrates how seriously the courts view the issue of fly-tipping. It is very unusual for this type of punishment to be given out but shows that no one is above the consequences of the law.

“The staff involved in this case worked hard to bring the case to court and I would like to thank them for their efforts.

“The council makes every effort to improve the local environment and we will continue to prosecute anyone caught dumping rubbish.”